Theme
AI Access
Jan
Use a desktop chat workspace that runs its default model and other compatible models on your computer, with optional connections to cloud providers.
See how this access route works, what it asks you to set up, and which current terms to check before using it.
May fit if
You want local AI in a desktop chat app
People who want a familiar chat interface for local AI without starting from a command line or API.
Access observed
Free local use
Jan says its local desktop route needs no account and has no monthly subscription or per-message API charge. You provide the computer, storage, and electricity.
What you will need
Supported computer, model download, and enough memory and storage
Install Jan on a supported Windows, Apple silicon Mac, or Linux computer. On first launch, let the default model download, or choose another local model that Jan says fits your hardware.
How access works
The local route starts without an account or API key
Jan downloads a default model on first launch and uses local models by default. The same app can also connect to cloud providers when you add their API keys, but that is a separate route with provider charges and terms.
Limits and charges
Your computer sets the practical limit
What runs comfortably depends on the operating system, available memory, graphics hardware, model size, context length, and free storage. Jan currently lists at least 10GB of free space and 8GB of memory for its supported desktop routes, with more memory recommended.
Your data and account
Confirm whether the active model is local or cloud
Jan documents local chats, models, settings, and app logs as stored on the computer. If you choose a cloud model, the provider needs the message to answer and its privacy terms apply.
Before relying on it
Start small and check the route
Local access still depends on compatible hardware and downloaded model files. Check the model license, storage size, active tools, and whether the selected model is local or cloud-hosted before using private or important material. Check Jan's current operating-system requirements, leave room for model downloads, start with a model marked as a fit for your hardware, and confirm the active provider before adding files or sensitive text.
Check current information
Jan source pages
Use Jan's official download, quickstart, local-engine, privacy, and GitHub pages for the current setup, cost, data-path, and license boundaries.
Continue exploring
Compare this route with the job you need to do.
See other limited or low-cost API paths, or return to the full Access guide for browser, app, API, and local choices.